Irresistible Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: Your Perfect Fall Dessert
Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with this incredibly moist and flavorful Pumpkin Bundt Cake. Generously spiced with warm cinnamon and brimming with rich pumpkin goodness, this spectacular fall dessert is elevated to perfection with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting and a scattering of perfectly toasted pecans. It’s a classic for a reason, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why this homemade pumpkin bundt cake, affectionately known as “Cinderella Cake” in our home, truly is in a league of its own.
This scratch-made pumpkin cake is absolutely divine! The moment I sampled the batter before it even hit the oven, I knew this recipe was a definite keeper. The intoxicating aroma that filled my kitchen as it baked was pure bliss, and that exquisite cream cheese frosting? Oh, it’s simply heavenly! It has been a cherished favorite of mine to bake every single fall season since its creation.
A Beloved Halloween Tradition
I first brought this delightful cake to life back in 2015, making its debut as the star dessert on Halloween night. Halloween has always been a special occasion for my family, a time for a big, warm gathering. Each year, I would prepare an assortment of hearty soups, a generous spread of breads and crackers to accompany them, and, of course, a show-stopping dessert for everyone to enjoy. My parents, my niece, and often a few other friends and family members would join us for the festivities. That particular year, my daughter, Josie, had six girlfriends over – a full house ready for dinner, trick-or-treating adventures, and a fun-filled sleepover. This Pumpkin Bundt Cake quickly became the centerpiece of our autumnal celebrations, marking many memorable evenings.
The Ultimate Spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake
This moist, spiced Pumpkin Bundt Cake truly is the perfect treat for fall. With its soft, tender crumb and an abundance of genuine pumpkin flavor, I’m confident it will quickly become one of your new favorite pumpkin recipes. How could it not? Each bite offers a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. The cake itself boasts a deep, comforting pumpkin taste complemented by classic fall spices. The rich, tangy cream cheese frosting provides a wonderful contrast, while the addition of toasted pecans introduces a delightful nutty crunch, making every mouthful an absolute pleasure.
Celebrating Autumn with Pumpkin Desserts
It should come as no surprise that my absolute favorite fall treats all feature pumpkin prominently. There’s something inherently comforting and festive about the flavor of pumpkin that perfectly captures the essence of the season. Whether I’m baking pumpkin cookies, indulging in delicious pumpkin bars, enjoying fluffy pumpkin muffins, or savoring a traditional pumpkin cake, I find pumpkin desserts to be the ideal way to celebrate the cooler weather and vibrant colors of autumn.
If you adore this particular pumpkin bundt cake, you are sure to fall in love with these other pumpkin-infused delights: our wholesome Pumpkin Zucchini Streusel Bread, the quick and easy Pumpkin Spice Air Fryer Biscuits, or the incredibly simple and satisfying Pumpkin Spice Dump Cake. Each offers a unique way to enjoy the beloved taste of pumpkin throughout the season.
The Charm of a Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
If you’re new to baking in a bundt pan, please don’t be intimidated. Bundt pans are designed to create beautifully shaped cakes that are often exceptionally moist due to their unique form, which allows for even heat distribution. When this pumpkin cake is gently inverted from the pan, it emerges with an impressive, intricate design that requires minimal decoration. And once you add the generous, tangy layer of homemade cream cheese frosting, it transforms into an undeniably perfect fall dessert. It’s ideal for a cozy treat alongside your afternoon coffee or tea, yet elegant enough to grace your next holiday table, making any occasion feel a little more special.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pumpkin Bundt Cake
For the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, please scroll down to the bottom of this post for the full printable recipe card. Here’s a closer look at the key components that make this moist pumpkin bundt cake so irresistible:
To make the Cake:
- Granulated Sugar – This provides the primary sweetness and contributes to the cake’s moist texture.
- Eggs – Use large eggs, and for the best results, allow them to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps them emulsify better with other ingredients, resulting in a lighter, more uniform cake batter.
- Vegetable Oil – A mild-flavored oil like vegetable or canola oil keeps the cake incredibly moist without imparting any unwanted flavors. It also contributes to a tender crumb.
- All-Purpose Flour – The structural base of our cake. Measure it correctly for the best texture.
- Baking Soda – Our leavening agent, which reacts with acidic ingredients (like pumpkin) to help the cake rise beautifully and create a tender texture.
- Cinnamon – The quintessential fall spice, adding warmth and a delightful aromatic sweetness. Consider pairing it with other spices for a richer profile, as in our cinnamon spice coffee cake.
- Salt – A pinch of salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the wonderful flavors in the cake.
- Pumpkin Puree – This is the heart of our pumpkin bundt cake! Be sure to use 100% canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar that would alter the recipe.
- Vanilla Extract – Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the most authentic and deep vanilla flavor, which complements the pumpkin and spices perfectly.
To Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream Cheese – For the richest, most decadent frosting, use full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature. While low-fat versions can work, they might not achieve the same luscious consistency.
- Unsalted Butter – Also softened to room temperature. This provides richness and helps create a smooth, pipeable frosting.
- Powdered Sugar – Also known as confectioners’ sugar or icing sugar. This fine sugar dissolves easily to create a smooth frosting and forms the bulk of its volume and sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – A generous amount of pure vanilla extract is key here. It elevates the cream cheese flavor beautifully – an investment you won’t regret!
- Pecans – Toasted and chopped pecan pieces add a fantastic textural element and a warm, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin and cream cheese.
How to Make a Pumpkin Bundt Cake from Scratch
Here’s a straightforward guide to crafting the absolute best homemade pumpkin bundt cake, step by step:
1. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and eggs. Beat them together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light in color and creamy in consistency. This process incorporates air, contributing to a lighter cake. Gradually add the vegetable oil, continuing to beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisking ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing pockets of leavening agents or spices in the final cake.
3. Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet egg mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. Once mostly combined, add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated and the batter is smooth.
4. Ensure Uniformity: Give the batter a final good mix by hand with a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and ensure no dry pockets remain. The batter should be thick, smooth, and evenly colored.
5. Prepare for Baking: Pour the pumpkin cake batter evenly into a well-greased bundt pan. To ensure a perfect release, generously grease the pan with butter or a baking spray that contains flour, making sure to get into all the crevices. Dust lightly with flour if not using a flour-containing spray, tapping out any excess.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for approximately 55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the thickest part of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake stand in the pan for 10 minutes after baking. This crucial step allows the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to release. Then, carefully invert the cake onto a wire baking rack to cool completely before frosting.
7. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare your irresistible cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Blend them together using a whisk or an electric mixer until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps. Stir in the pure vanilla extract. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the desired consistency is achieved. If you prefer a thicker frosting, you may add a little more powdered sugar; for a thinner consistency, a tiny splash of milk can be added.
8. Frost and Garnish: Once the cake is completely cool, generously slather it with the homemade cream cheese frosting. Before the frosting has a chance to set, sprinkle the toasted pecans over the top. This not only adds a beautiful visual element but also a fantastic textural contrast. Slice and serve this delightful spiced pumpkin bundt cake!
Storage Tips for Your Delicious Bundt Cake
Leftover pumpkin bundt cake can be stored on the kitchen counter for 3-4 days in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain its moisture and freshness. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week, or freeze individual slices (well-wrapped) for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
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Frequently Asked Questions About This Pumpkin Bundt Cake Recipe
- What’s the key difference between a regular cake and a Bundt cake? A Bundt cake is specifically baked in a Bundt pan. This distinctive pan is typically round with a fluted or decorative pattern on the sides and a central tube, which allows for more even baking and results in a cake with a unique, often elegant shape. The hole in the middle helps the cake cook more evenly by exposing more surface area to heat.
- Can you use a bundt pan for any kind of cake? Technically, yes, you can bake nearly any cake batter in a Bundt pan. However, because of the pan’s unique shape and often larger volume, the baking time will likely differ from what’s specified for a traditional round or square baking pan. If you choose to use a Bundt pan for a recipe not designed for it, always watch the cake carefully and use a toothpick or skewer to test for doneness.
- Should I let the bundt cake cool before removing it from the pan? Absolutely! It is crucial to let the cake cool slightly, usually for about 10-15 minutes, while still in the pan after it comes out of the oven. This allows the cake to firm up and pull away from the sides of the pan slightly, making it much easier to invert and remove without sticking or breaking. After this initial cooling, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Why is my Bundt cake soggy? A soggy Bundt cake can often be attributed to a few factors. The most common reason is under-baking – the cake simply hasn’t had enough time in the oven for the moisture to evaporate and for the crumb to set. Another reason could be excessive moisture in the batter. Also, once removed from the oven, ensure the cake is placed on a wire rack to cool; this allows air to circulate underneath and around the cake, preventing condensation that can lead to a soggy bottom.
- Can I use Pam to grease a bundt pan? While Pam cooking spray can be used, some bakers find that over time, it can leave a sticky residue buildup on Bundt pans that becomes hard to remove and can affect future cake releases. A better alternative is to thoroughly grease the pan with softened butter or vegetable shortening, ensuring every crevice is covered, then lightly dust with flour, tapping out any excess. You can also use a baking spray specifically designed for baking, which often contains flour.
- Is it better to take a bundt cake out of the pan hot or cold? It is best to allow your cake to cool slightly, typically for 10-15 minutes, before attempting to remove it from the pan. Trying to remove it when it’s piping hot can cause it to break apart, as its structure is still very delicate. Waiting too long until it’s completely cold can also make it difficult to remove, as the sugars might adhere more firmly to the pan. The ideal window is warm but not hot.
Creative Substitutions & Variations
Remember that when it comes to customizing recipes, don’t hesitate to get creative! Adjust ingredients to suit your personal taste preferences or dietary needs. Make this pumpkin bundt cake truly your own!
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Sugar Swap: For a deeper, more molasses-like flavor, consider using a mix of white granulated sugar and light brown sugar, or even all brown sugar, in the cake batter. This can add an extra layer of warmth to your spiced pumpkin cake.
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Nutty Alternatives: If pecans aren’t your preference, try toasted walnuts for a similar crunchy, earthy note. For a nut-free option, you can use roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) as a topping, or simply leave the cake plain for a simpler elegance. Each option provides a delightful contrast to the moist cake.
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Frosting Flexibility: If you find yourself without cream cheese, or simply prefer a different topping, a classic buttercream frosting works beautifully. This rich coffee buttercream frosting, for instance, would offer an intriguing flavor pairing with the pumpkin and spices.
- Unfrosted Delight: For a less sweet or lighter option, skip the frosting altogether and serve this pumpkin bundt cake with a dollop of homemade pumpkin butter, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a simple vanilla glaze. This lighter presentation is perfect for a fall brunch or a morning coffee treat.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Pumpkin Bundt Cake
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Chocolate Indulgence: Elevate your pumpkin bundt cake by mixing in your favorite type of chocolate chips. Milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips will all add a delightful melty texture and complementary chocolatey flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin and spice.
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Enhanced Spices: To intensify the warm, autumnal flavor, consider adding a touch of other warm spices like allspice, nutmeg, ground ginger, or cloves to your dry ingredients. Even better, mix up a batch of homemade pumpkin pie spice blend to have on hand for all your fall baking needs.
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Miniature Bundt Cakes: For individual servings or a charming presentation, make mini pumpkin bundt cakes using mini bundt pans. Adjust baking time accordingly (they will bake much faster).
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Cream Cheese Choice: While I personally love the rich, tangy taste of Philadelphia cream cheese for frosting, any brand of full-fat cream cheese will work well to create a delicious and stable frosting.
More Delicious Bundt Cake Recipes to Love
Do you share my affection for bundt pans? Me too! They’re incredibly versatile and perfect for creating stunning, delicious cakes with minimal effort. Here are some of my other favorite bundt cake recipes that I’m sure you’ll enjoy:
- Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake with Brown Butter Glaze (pictured above): A delightful morning or afternoon treat, featuring warm pumpkin spice flavors and a rich brown butter glaze.
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Lemon Cream Cheese Bundt Cake: A bright and zesty cake with a tender crumb and a sweet, tangy cream cheese glaze that’s perfect for spring and summer.
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Blueberry Banana Bundt Cake: A moist and fruity cake combining the classic flavors of banana bread with bursts of fresh blueberries, ideal for breakfast or dessert.
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Easy Lemon Raspberry Bundt Cake: Simple to make, this cake offers a beautiful balance of tart lemon and sweet raspberries, creating a refreshing and elegant dessert.
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Carrot Bundt Cake: A classic comfort cake loaded with shredded carrots, warm spices, and often topped with a delightful cream cheese frosting, perfect for any season.
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Lemon Rhubarb Bundt Cake: A unique and flavorful cake that beautifully combines the tartness of rhubarb with the bright zest of lemon for a truly special treat.
This pumpkin spice bundt cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fall, a comforting classic that brings people together. Its moist crumb, rich pumpkin flavor, and decadent cream cheese frosting make it an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re serving it at your next holiday gathering, a casual family get-together, or bringing it to a potluck, this recipe is bound to be a huge hit and leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful taste of autumn!
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Print Recipe
Pumpkin Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – “Cinderella Cake”
Equipment
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Offset Spatula , SIMEEGO Icing Spatula Set with 6 8 10 Inch Stainless Steel Blades
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Rubber Spatulas
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Nordic Ware Bundt Pan
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Kitchenaid Stand Mixer
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KitchenAid Hand Mixer
Ingredients
To make the Cake:
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cup flour
- 2 tsp. baking soda
- 2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1-15 oz. can pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
To Make the Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/2 cup toasted pecan pieces chopped
Instructions
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To Make the Cake: Beat sugar and eggs until creamy and light in color. Add oil, continuing to beat. Combine dry ingredients with a whisk, gradually mixing into the egg mixture. Add pumpkin and vanilla, and mix well.
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Pour into a greased bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 55 minutes. Let stand in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a baking rack to cool completely.
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To Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, blend softened cream cheese and butter til smooth and creamy. Add vanilla. Then add powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved. (you may need to add more to achieve this)
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Frost and top with toasted pecans before frosting sets.
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on November 4, 2015. It has been updated to improve user experience and reshared on October 25, 2023.
